On 27 May 2025, UNU will host “Egyptian Archaeology and Museums: Preserving World Heritage”, a conversation with Dr. Khaled El-Enany, former Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. The event will start at 16:00 in the 2F Reception Hall at the UNU Headquarters in Tokyo.
In 1822, Jean-François Champollion announced the decipherment of the script on the Rosetta Stone, unlocking the ability to read thousands of ancient Egyptian texts — temple inscriptions, tombs, papyri — and opening the field of Egyptology. The scientific foundations and evolving methodologies of Egyptology, alongside recent discoveries, continue to reshape our understanding of this ancient civilization.
Dr. El-Enany will join UNU Rector Tshildzi Marwala to explore recent developments in Egyptology and highlight the pivotal role of museums as inclusive cultural institutions that promote heritage preservation, intercultural dialogue, and universal access to knowledge. How does this field bring together diverse disciplines ranging from archaeology, to education, science, culture, and communication? What is the role of international institutions, including the United Nations, in preserving world heritage? In the face of global instability and conflict, what more can be done to ensure that humanity’s legacy is protected for future generations?
The UNU Conversation Series aims to foster audience participation; you are encouraged to engage with the speakers during the conversation and at the reception that will follow, where all event attendees are invited to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks while exchanging ideas and making new contacts.
Please note that this event will be in English. Advance registration (by 26 May at 15:00) is required. Please click on the REGISTER button above to access the online registration page.
Please be prepared to present identification at check-in.
UNU@50
This event is part of the UNU 50th anniversary celebration. To learn more, visit: https://unu.edu/unuat50
About the Speaker
Khaled Ahmed El-Enany Ali Ezz, born in 1971, is a leading figure recognized for his expertise and commitment across diverse fields including teaching, scientific research, culture, tourism, management, public service, and international relations. A former Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, he currently holds the position of Professor of Egyptology at Helwan University, where he has been a faculty member for over thirty years.
His teaching, focused on the civilization, archaeology, and epigraphy of Ancient Egypt, is not only taught in Egypt but also at prestigious international institutions. As a mentor, he has enabled thousands of students and researchers, both Egyptian and international, to benefit from his in-depth knowledge and vast experience. Through his conferences and scientific engagements across twenty countries, he has shared his expertise, enriched academic discourse and encouraged access to knowledge, while promoting intercultural dialogue. His proficiency in Arabic, French, and English demonstrates his communication skills, a key asset for fostering international cooperation.
Khaled El-Enany was named Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters from France in 2015, honored with the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland in 2020, and awarded the Order of the Rising Sun by Japan in 2021. In September 2024, he received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Paul-Valéry Montpellier. In November 2024, he was chosen Special Ambassador for Cultural Tourism by UN Tourism and, more recently, designated Patron of the African World Heritage Fund.
Dr. El-Enany is a candidate for the post of Director-General of UNESCO, to be chosen later this year.
